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The several species of small birds known as goldfinches are named for the yellow in their plumage. They have short, notched tails, and their bills are rather delicate and sharp-pointed for finches. Flocks of goldfinches feed on weed seeds in fields and gardens. The birds have high, lisping calls, often given in flight.

Goldfinches belong to the genus Carduelis in the songbird family, Fringillidae. The American goldfinch (C. tristis) is found across North America. Because its song resembles that of the European caged canary, it is sometimes called a “wild canary.” The American goldfinch is the state bird of Iowa, New Jersey, and Washington. It is about 5 inches (13 centimeters) long. The male is yellow with black cap, wings, and tail. The female is olive green and dull yellow. The nest is made of fine grasses, shredded bark, and moss lined with thistledown. There are three to six bluish-white eggs. The dark-backed goldfinch (C. psaltria) ranges from the western United States to Peru. Smaller than the American goldfinch, this bird is also known as the lesser goldfinch.

Armin Maerz

The European goldfinch (C. carduelis) is native to western Eurasia and has been introduced into Australia, New Zealand, and Bermuda. It is about 51/2 inches (14 centimeters) long. Both sexes are brownish and black, with a red, white, and black head and yellow in the wings.

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